ALT-1 The Case for Hybrid Cars
The idea of hybrid cars has long been debated, discussed and evaluated. Keeping in mind rising gas prices, hybrid cars are finally getting the attention they deserve. In addition, an increase in environmental consciousness and the widespread expansion of go-green campaigns has also highlighted the advantages hybrid vehicles offer as compared to those that run on gas.
Like any newinvention, hybrid cars have gone through a comprehensive process of designing, assembling, manufacturing, testing, driving, maintaining and so on. Hybrid cars also have their pros and cons. First, they are moreefficientthan vehicles that run on gas or diesel. It is the use of electric battery that makes them fuel efficient. Additionally, hybrids charge themselves when the engine is running and also regenerate when braking or going downhill. Second, they are very cost-efficient since gas prices are sky-high and constantly increasing. Hybrids are thus the ultimate solution for rising fuel costs and are also an alternate that we can adopt to deal with the fast depleting oil resources. Third, since they don't consume gas, the level of greenhouse gas emissions is much lower than normal automobiles. Fourth, hybrids do not require regular servicing and have lesser need of repairs and part-replacement because they are manufactured with fewer parts than the conventional automobile.
Some of the cons include the fact that hybrids have a lower lifespan. While they don't require too much maintenance they will not last as long as a conventional automobile. Also, since this is still a technology that is being developed and improved upon, battery production still has to be streamlined but that should also automatically happen once demand for these cars increase.
The first hybrid was introduced by Honda when it produced theHonda Insight. Since Insight was a two-seater, hybrids began to be perceived as small and impractical cars. However, companies have now put much effort and investment into the development of these cars and today consumers have several options from models that are not only fuel-efficient and cost-effective but roomy and comfortable.
The hybrid cars that are available for purchase today include those that complement gas engines with electric motors. This helps improve the car's gas mileage and power. While most automakers today are manufacturing hybrid models, the two biggest producers of hybrid cars are Toyota and Honda. When evaluating which hybrid car is the best, reviews indicate that the2013 Ford C-Max Hybridand the 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid are pretty good. Additionally, the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid, Chevrolet Malibu Eco and Toyota Prius are not far behind in their ratings. Since this product is still new, it is up to the consumer to do his research properly as to which hybrid car would best suit his needs and which model is the most advanced in terms of this new technology.
There is no doubt hybrid cars are cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The potential of this idea is huge and in the years to come, there is no saying how far designers and manufacturers can take a hybrid. Designers and inventors are continuously involved in producing products that are better and longer lasting. While hybrids may not be as acceptable as conventional cars today, in the long run there is a great possibility that more and more consumers will switch to hybrids. Big automobile companies such as Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet and Volkswagen are coming up with models that are as appealing as conventional SUVs, Vans and Sedans. Research is also being undertaken as to how to make these hybrids equally powerful as a car that runs on gas and with time, eventually designers will make progress and find the right solutions for the end-user.
